were safeguarding our nation at pearl harbor and other military facilities on the island of oahu in hawaii. on december 7 1941 without warning, the japanese launched a massive air attack against pearl harbor. when the attack ended, almost 3000 americans have lost their lives. a total of 21 ships were demolished, and 188 aircraft were destroyed. most of the aircraft were destroyed before they could become airborne. after the attack, president franklin delano roosevelt stated that this day, december the seventh is a day that will live in infamy, and it has. we gathered to remember that attack on pearl arbor -- pearl harbor and remember and honor all of those who served in world war two. it is my pleasure today to represent the friends of the national world war ii memorial. it is an organization that is dedicated to ensuring that we always remember the greatest generation and their service, valor, and sacrifice. all those who supported on the home front -- we worked closely and proudly with the national parks service and the department of defense to bring event like this throughout the year a